Kuh Ledesma at 70: A look back on the OPM icon’s career-defining moments

MANILA, Philippines — It’s the birthday month of Kuh Ledesma, who turned 70 last March 16 and has gracefully handled time and trends.

She radiates such an effortless beauty and youthful glow and possesses that zest for life and for her craft.

Her decades-spanning career as an Original Pilipino Music (OPM) icon is an inspiration to emerging local artists. It is one of the many feats Kuh is grateful for.

And she is sharing that gratitude with everyone in a showcase titled “My Kuhl 17th Birthday Show” tonight at the Hacienda Isabella. Singer-actress Mitch Valdez is joining Kuh as the latter’s guest artist.

In a recent e-mail chat, The STAR asked Kuh to look back on and list down seven milestones that paved the way and defined her illustrious music and recording career.

First on the list is her double-vinyl, one-of-a-kind Ako Ay Pilipino album that features “a collection of beloved Filipino love songs from the past,” said she. “What made this album groundbreaking was its fusion of traditional and contemporary elements — ethnic instruments were masterfully incorporated, creating a unique Filipino sound.”

Described as a true labor of love, the album gave Kuh the opportunity “to record the patriotic song Ako Ay Pilipino, a powerful anthem that expresses the deep pride of being Filipino. The song resonated with people from all walks of life and, over time, became like a second national anthem, embraced by Filipinos regardless of political affiliation,” said she.

Coming in second is the “Inspired Madness Concert,” which was mounted at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and dubbed an “avant-garde — bold and innovative musical experience that pushed creative boundaries. I knew that to create something extraordinary, I had to work with the best,” said she, who collaborated with filmmaker Peque Gallaga, filmmaker-screenwriter Joey Reyes and National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, plus the vocal group The Tux.

“The concert also took place during a pivotal moment in Philippine history — the assassination of Ninoy Aquino,” remembered Kuh. “‘Inspired Madness’ remains one of my most unforgettable concerts not just for its artistic brilliance but also for its significance.”

Among her signature songs, Kuh’s grand prize-winning Till I Met You also made it on the list.

“I never liked the idea of joining singing contests,” said she of her participation in the Sixth Metropop Song (Music) Festival. “I believed that art should not be a competition. However, it was (singer-songwriter) Odette Quesada’s grandmother who persistently encouraged me to join. Eventually, I agreed — and the rest is history.”

Till I Met You belongs to her collection of timeless classics and staples of her repertoire.

From singing beautiful ditties and conceptualizing unique concerts, Kuh ventured into the establishment or creation of The Music Museum. She considered it “one of the boldest and most meaningful milestones in my career (and) it was a decision that required my lifetime savings — earnings from my tours — but more than just a financial investment, it was an investment in the future of Filipino artists and live entertainment.” 

Back then, many artists had a challenging task to look for the right venue for their performances, said Kuh, who “wanted to create a space that could serve as a home for our local performers, a theater, and live performances where artists could freely showcase their talents without the challenges of booking a hotel.”

Aside from representing the country in music festivals and events abroad, Kuh Ledesma sat as a judge at the 1991 Miss Universe pageant. “It was both an honor and a privilege to be part of such a prestigious global event, representing the Philippines on an international stage,” said she, who was described as one of Asia’s top recording stars and princess of pop in the said edition.

Speaking of going global, Kuh released her first international album Precious and described it as her “step beyond the local music scene and into the global stage.”

“(It) made its way to the jazz charts, proving that Filipino artistry could hold its own alongside international acts,” added she.

Completing the list is her 45-plus-year-career in the entertainment industry.

“By the grace of God, I have been given the many opportunities to remain active in the industry for over 45 years,” said Kuh. “Something I consider a true blessing. I am still performing, directing, and mentoring new talents, continuously looking for ways to help the next generation of artists.”

“Beyond music, one of the greatest privileges of my journey has been the opportunity to share the Word of God. My faith has guided me throughout my career, and being able to inspire and uplift others — not just through music, but through the message of God’s love — is something I hold close to my heart,” added she.

“I am grateful for every stage, every song, and every chance to make a difference. As long as I have the voice and the platform, I will continue doing what I love — honoring my craft, helping others grow, and giving glory to God,” concluded Kuh.

(To secure tickets, call 0960-8850288 or 0920-2868895. Dinner is served at 6 p.m., while the show starts at 8.)